In today’s world of technology, we are constantly exchanging personal information over email, telephone calls and while browsing the internet. While this has provided us with enhanced methods of communication, it has also spawned the growth of new types of criminal activity. Identity theft is rapidly becoming more common, as many people mistakenly believe that their personal information is not in danger of being stolen. However, in reality, over 9 million people have their identities stolen each year, in the United States alone. To help protect yourself, it’s best if you are aware of certain things that you can do to help protect yourself against identity theft.
Identity Theft Prevention Tip 1: Purchase a Paper Shredder.
Many criminals obtain enough personal information from a person’s garbage to steal their identity. For example, many thieves search the garbage of high-end apartments and housing complexes, searching for important documents. With a bank statement, a utility bill, a pre-screened credit offer or another piece of “trash”, a thief may have all he needs in order to steal your identity.
To prevent this, purchase a heavy-duty paper shredder. This way, you can make sure that any important documents that you put in your trash won’t be able to be used to steal your identity. If you wish, you can also purchase a shredder that is able to destroy CD’s, discs and DVD’s, if you have any stored personal information on them that needs to be disposed safely.
Identity Theft Prevention Tip 2: Modify Your Bank Checks.
Many people don’t realize that the information that is printed on their bank checks could potentially be used in identity theft. For example, many people have their social security number or telephone number printed on their checks. While it’s often required to have your address on a bank check, any other information is unnecessary. If a potential thief got hold of one of your bank checks, he could have the name of your bank, your account number, your phone number and your social security number. This would be more than enough information for your identity to be stolen.
Identity Theft Prevention Tip 3: Screen Your Phone Calls.
When first setting up an account with a bank, credit card company or utilities company, they may require personal information (such as your mother’s maiden name, social security number, past residences, etc) when activating your account. However, once this information is on file, most companies will not contact you again to “confirm” this information. Be wary of any phone calls from anyone who claims to be a representative from a company, asking for personal information. It’s highly possible that this could be a fraudulent phone call.
Identity Theft Prevention Tip 4:Secure Your Computer.
Many people think that storing personal information (such as bank account numbers, email passwords, etc) on their computer automatically makes it “safe”. However, there are many different computer viruses that are designed to give identity thieves access to all of your information. To prevent this, it’s best if you protect your computer with a firewall. A firewall will make it difficult (if not impossible) for your computer to be infiltrated by a potentially dangerous virus.
If you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, your computer has an effective built-in firewall already installed. However, you still need to make sure that this firewall is enabled. Navigate through your Control Panel to “Windows Firewall” or “System and Security”. Make sure that the firewall is enabled and protecting your computer. If you don’t have a firewall, there are several different programs you can purchase to protect your computer. There are also free firewalls that you can use to help protect your computer.
Identity Theft Prevention Tip 5: Screen Your Emails.
Many identity thieves will attempt to get you to surrender personal information by email. You may get an email stating that you’ve won a prize of significant value, or have been “specially selected” to receive a cash reward. Other common scams involve emails that state that you have won a foreign lottery, or are the benefactor of the funds of a deceased distant relative. Don’t be fooled! These emails are usually designed to ask for your information in order for you to receive your prize. While some of these emails are simple spam emails (designed to promote a product, charge “monthly subscription” fees, etc), it’s very possible that by replying to these emails, you could have your personal information stolen.
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